Tip of the Week #1

I've found that when playing gigs or extended practice sessions, sometimes my finger joints will be sore the next day. One way I've found to reduce this soreness is to tape your fingers while playing.

I tape mine like so:

The tape provides enough resistance that you can still properly grip the stick, but provides some cushion for your joints.

I use electric tape because it stays on despite the sweat and the constant drumming motion. I recommend white electric tape (any hardware store will carry it) because the black electric tape leaves sticky black residue behind.

If you are in a situation where you have played for a long time without taped fingers, and your joints are sore the following morning, I suggest taping them anyways, as the tape will act as a brace and reduce the movement of your fingers.

How to Hold a Drumstick

There are many incorrect ways to do this, and I am constantly surprised at the number of drummers I see doing it wrong. You will benefit from holding the stick properly by having my control, and more powerful strokes.

First, place your thumb and first finger on the stick about a third of the way up, like so:











(You're going to want about a half an inch to an inch of the stick protruding from the back of your hand)





Next, wrap the rest of your fingers around the stick, making sure there are no spaces between the stick and your fingers.


The Number One Bad Habit:

Lifting your pinky while playing.






This is a kind of cheating that helps to fake the sound of a roll. Besides looking silly, taking your finger away from the stick like this will weaken your grip, and you will play worse, not better.

The ways in which your playing suffer by using such a grip:
You cannot (or is a lot harder to) play fast and complex beats. This weak grip will also increase the chances of the drummer dropping a stick.

Practice:

There is no real method to practicing this grip. If you have a habit of doing this, you will have to pay attention when you play, concentrating on keeping all of your fingers wrapped around the stick.

I would suggest playing on a practice pad (or suitable substitution) in front of a mirror, so you can constantly watch your form.

Good:

Bad:

***
So remember, you want all of your fingers to be touching the stick at all times, with no space at all between your fingers and the drum stick.

Welcome

Hi,
Welcome to my percussion instruction blog. I will be posting drumming tips and techniques for drummers of all skill levels. I will also talk about the different aspects of being a drum instructor, and discussing well known drummers, drumming events, and drum products.

Are there any particular topics you'd like to see discussed here? Drop a note in the comment section and I'll see what I can do.

Want to know a bit about me?

I'm a 24 year old drummer with 19 years of experience. I have experience in symphonic and marching band. I spent one season playing snare for a division II drum corp, played numerous paid gigs, and have been in the studio many times with local bands cutting drum tracks.

I have experience in instructing middle and high school students, and working as a private instructor.

(me-- in the studio last fall)

Ok, so let's get down to business, then.